Answering the Call

"I tell you that Americans, such as these, have been answering that call for over 230 years by serving in our Army"

Lt. Gen. (Retired) James R. Helmly

Share you story and photos with us on why you continue to be “Army Strong,' and “Stay Army Reserve”.

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Staff Sgt. Zachary J. Melancon

Staff Sgt. Zach Melancon joined the Army for the education benefits but ended up finding a career.

Why I Stay Army Reserve

“I am reenlisting simply because I love what I do and I would love to keep serving my country in any way that I can. I don’t do it for the money or benefits; I just love what I do. I would encourage someone else to reenlist to do it for the same reasons and not for money or perks.”

Staff Sgt. Zachary J. Melancon

I enlisted in the Army Reserve to help fund my college education and to serve my country while still being able to work on the civilian side on 23 May 2003 with an MOS of 92A, Automated Logistical Specialist, with a secondary MOS of 00GX. I am currently assigned to Echo Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 378th Regiment, 98th Division.

I love being a soldier because I can serve my country part time and have opportunities to serve full time while attending college/working in the civilian world. It has been the best thing I have done in my life by far and has helped me mature as a person and appreciate the little things in life. Being a Warrior-Citizen means being proud of my country and being a representative of the military in my local community. I am able to travel to places I couldn’t have otherwise and educate my friends and family of the sacrifices our soldiers make and help them understand what we go through.

I was deployed to Iraq from 2004-2005. It was most memorable just Just seeing different places and cultures that I had never seen before, the different practices, language, and food. Also, as head of the PT program, I helped my battle buddy lose 40 lbs., pass his PT test, and get promoted right before we left.

I was born and raised in Gonzales, LA and graduated from East Ascension High School 15 May 2003. I also graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology and a Minor in Business.